Chris and I recently went to Willow Restaurant right here in Arlington, thanks to a Groupon! Seriously, half of the time we go out to eat, we use a coupon from Savored (formerly “VillageVines”), Groupon, or LivingSocial. We sat outside, because we’d sat inside last time we went… and the feel of the restaurant is completely different depending on where you sit. Inside, it’s got a very posh vibe. You walk up to the host desk, and you feel like you’re checking into a very expensive and ritzy hotel. Or maybe a night club. (Well, that might be a stretch.) Outside, the feel is a lot more casual and informal (though definitely still classy!). Unfortunately, although the temperature was somewhat cooler than usual that evening, it still felt extremely muggy outside! Oh well.

He loved it. Scallops are his new favorite thing, and they were seared to perfection. I was feeling like going veggie, so I ordered the Duo of Fennel & Spring Asparagus (“Fennel Raviolini, Potato Gnocchi, & Spring Vegetables with Gratin of Fennel & Savory, Black Truffle Butter”). I also ordered a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. (Typical.)

Duo of Fennel & Spring Asparagus

My meal was delicious, but I was so hungry going into dinner that afterwards I wished I’d ordered fish instead.

Willow is great, but I don’t dream about the food when I’m not there. Food critics must agree… it was on the Top 100 list last year, but didn’t make the cut for 2011. Sorry, Willow. It’s definitely a nice place to have right around the corner! The overall result — and the cost — make it more of a draw with a coupon though.

I have SO much Mexican food to share! Next post, I promise to move on to something else. :)

Last weekend (not this past weekend, but the one before), I made my favorite casserole for our friends who just had a baby. Here is a link to the recipe for the Southwest Pasta Bake…. I just call it “Mexican Lasagna.” Tired of making the same old boring casserole? Here is something that will wow your audience. I made extra to enjoy with my dear friend Arielle, who was in town from Seattle. We had a yummy South African Sauvignon Blanc (wine maker: Zafrika) from Trader Joe’s, which complimented the meal nicely.

Mexican Lasagna

Next, quesadilla madness. Are you surprised? I obviously love quesadillas. :) We had friends over a week ago, and this was the spread… Crispy Black Bean Tacos with Feta and Cabbage Slaw… (I know they are called “tacos,” but I really made them more quesadilla-like!)

Crispy Black Bean Tacos with Feta & Cabbage Slaw

That’s Mexican rice in the crockpot, that our friend Sarah brought along. I promise I will post the amazing margarita and guacamole recipes at some point! A staple for Chris and I’s food life.

Tonight, I made similar quesadillas (with tomatoes added and pepper jack cheese, instead of feta). I also wanted to share this Corn & Avocado Salad, from this month’s Real Simple issue. Light and easy! I used green onions instead of scallions.

Corn & Avocado Salad

The next meal will be more Italian-based… my other favorite cuisine besides Mexican. :)